It's the first time in the California race's 37-year history that the Badwater, known for its blazing temperatures, has not started from the Badwater Basin.

Race director Chris Kostman told the Sun that the new course, which passes through the Owens Valley, has 17,000 feet of ascent and 12,700 feet of descent, compared to the old course's 13,000 feet of ascent and 4,700 of descent.

"Times will not be as good this year and I believe more people will drop out," Kostman said.

The Los Angeles Times reported that 98 runners — 19 women and 79 men — will compete in the race.